Marks of Discipleship

For centuries, we have called it The Great Commission. Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and Acts all refer to it. Christians in the first century lived by it. Missionaries in the 20th century devoted their lives to it. Lord of Life in the 21st century embraces it. “Go into all your worlds and be and make disciples intentionally.” That is a paraphrase of The Great Commission and therein lies the mission statement of every church and the marching orders of every Christian.

Disciples are followers: not people who have reached their destination; they are people who are discovering their direction, often one step at a time. Disciples are lifetime learners; the Bible is their basic textbook. Disciples are representatives; they represent the ethics and values of Jesus in the marketplace. They are not political action groups, but prophetic promoters of justice and righteousness which have the power to reform a nation.

Lord of Life challenges every person to consider and commit to a personal spiritual growth plan. Our six Marks of Discipleship are: Pray daily; Worship weekly; Read the Bible; Build caring relationships; Serve at and beyond Lord of Life; and Give of your time, talent, and resources. Each of the Marks of Discipleship helps you to deepen an area in your spiritual life. Some are easy, some moderate, and some challenging.  

What a great time to be alive! What a great purpose we have in living! Paul captures it in these words, “And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.” Colossians 1:9-10

Go with God,

Pastor Qualley